The romantic Douro River winds through northern Portugal, creating a landscape of sculpted hills and terraced vineyards. Embark on a 7-night cruise and sail from picturesque, medieval Barca d’Alva to Porto, a delightful mosaic of scarlet and gold architecture. Pass by storybook villages and steeply sloping countryside while gliding through one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions. Taste locally produced olives, almonds, breads and cheeses, and of course, port–the famous sweet, fortified wine the area is known for.
Program Details
- Exclusive land and cruise journey introduces you to the cultural highlights of this unspoiled wine-and port-producing region.
- Created in our tradition of innovative programming and educational travel.
- Access to ports unavailable to larger vessels and included excursions throughout your cruise.
- Specially arranged food and wine tastings throughout the valley.
- Two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Alto Douro Wine Region and Historic Centre of Oporto, Portugal.
Day 1 - Depart home city
Day 2 - Porto for Barca d’Alva, Portugal/Embark AmaVida
Day 3 - Barca d’Alva
Day 4 - Pinhão
Day 5 - Regua
Day 6 - Entre-Os-Rios
Day 7 - Porto
Day 8 - Porto
Day 9 - Porto/Return to home city
AmaVida
Timeless elegance spills from the decks of AmaVida as the ship cruises along Portugal’s Douro River. Most staterooms feature balconies from which to enjoy views of terraced vineyards, as well as deluxe hotel-style bedding and spacious bathrooms. AmaVida’s passionate chefs will treat you to exquisite, locally-sourced cuisine paired with unlimited local wine—and the region’s signature Port—as well as beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner in the Main Restaurant.
Madrid Pre-Tour Extension
Discover Madrid, Spain's capital and a vibrant, welcoming city known for its rich culture and historic neighborhoods and streets. A tour reveals elegant, tree-lined boulevards; large, landscaped parks; varied architecture and lovely fountains—Cibeles Fountain has become a symbol of the city. Stop in the Prado Museum, which boasts one of the world’s finest collections of European art, renowned for its superior collection of artworks by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, Rubens, Titian and Hieronymus Bosch, among others.
Visit the UNESCO-designated city of Toledo, with its ancient walls, monuments and buildings with varied architectural styles. Visit the Puerta de Bisagra, a Moorish 10th-century city gate; the Toledo Cathedral, an eye-popping example of medieval Gothic architecture; and Alcazar, an Arab fortress. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant.
End your extension with a scenic drive—passing charming villages, olive groves and farms—to beautiful Salamanca. Upon arrival, explore the historic university town on foot. Step inside the ornate cathedral and discover the famous 13th-century university. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant.
Lisbon Post-Tour Extension
Explore Lisbon, taking a walking tour of Bairro Alto (Upper District). This neighborhood, one of Lisbon’s oldest, boasts shops, cafés and brightly painted houses along steep cobbled streets. Drive to the Queluz National Palace, often referred to as the Portuguese Versailles. Visit inside, then stroll the lovely garden, which features ponds, statuary and a tiled canal. Continue to Sintra, a fairytale town that has been given UNESCO World Heritage designation for its architecture and cultural contributions. Journey to the center of the historic old town for a visit to the National Palace of Sintra, the oldest palace in Portugal.
Take a scenic drive through the picturesque village of Cascais and then along Lisbon's coast to admire the beaches, the mouth of the Tagus River and the Tower of Belem. Finally, enjoy a fado dinner—Fado is Portugal’s version of soulful blues music. Enjoy a delicious Portuguese meal, followed by the musical performance.
The Optional Extension is available at an additional cost. Details will be provided with your reservation confirmation.
